Estate and Property Fraud
What if someone shows up claiming to be owed something from the estate?
Short answer
Do not make any payments or agree to anything without written documentation and verification. If you are the executor, direct them to file a formal creditor claim with the probate court. If you are not the executor, refer them to whoever is…
What this usually means
Do not make any payments or agree to anything without written documentation and verification. If you are the executor, direct them to file a formal creditor claim with the probate court. If you are not the executor, refer them to whoever is. Never pay a claimed debt from your personal funds without legal advice.
What to do next
- Start the PathAfter checklist for situation-aware first steps.
- Find California county help for coroner contacts, vital records, cost tools, and paperwork.
- Open the First 72 Hours Call Log before making calls.
- Open the Documents to Find Checklist when you are ready for paperwork.